EABL Dismisses Court Case Claims, Separates Dispute from Diageo–Asahi Deal

East African Breweries Limited (EABL) has moved to clarify reports linking an ongoing court case to the recently announced transaction between Diageo and Japan’s Asahi Group, firmly stating that the two matters are entirely unrelated.

In a statement, EABL explained that the issues before the courts stem from a long-running commercial dispute between Bia Tosha and Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) over distribution territories within Kenya. The company emphasized that the case has no factual or legal connection whatsoever to the Diageo–Asahi transaction, which saw Asahi acquire Diageo’s majority stake in EABL.

According to EABL, the latest court application is part of what it describes as a decade-long campaign by a former employee and former distributor to destabilize the group’s operations. The brewer termed the individual a “serial litigant” and said similar attempts over the past 10 years have been unsuccessful. EABL further dismissed all claims raised in the matter as false and without merit.

The company also sought to reassure stakeholders that the change in shareholding does not affect its operational strength or legal standing. EABL noted that both it and its flagship subsidiary, KBL, remain independent and fully capable entities, able to conduct their business normally and robustly defend themselves against any litigation.

EABL warned that suggestions to the contrary are misleading and harmful, not just to the company but to Kenya’s broader investment climate. It added that such narratives undermine the country’s reputation as a destination for credible, long-term foreign investment, at a time when Kenya is seeking to attract high-quality global capital.

The brewer reaffirmed its commitment to stable operations, lawful business practices, and continued contribution to the Kenyan economy despite the ongoing legal noise surrounding the long-standing dispute.

Read Also: Diageo Sells All Shares In EABL To Asahi, Signalling a New Chapter for East Africa’s Beverage Giant